Shine On...

talent

2011-12-24T05:48:00.000-08:00

I love this saying from Erma Bombeck. I saw this illustration on someone's blog and just needed a canvas for myself with this saying...

I hope I can say this when it is my time.

Blessings - K

you say it's your birthday...

2011-12-21T05:43:00.000-08:00

it's close to Jesus' birthday too. I know, pretty corny.

Hope you all have a very, merry Christmas!

Blessings - K

anniversary

2011-12-18T05:42:00.000-08:00

this is one I made for our card group... I am kind of digging these colors right now...

mostly stampin up! items...

TFL!
Blessings - K

doe a deer

2011-12-15T06:23:00.000-08:00

a northwoods rubber stamp...embossed image, simple color scheme...

blessings - K

2011-12-11T06:18:00.000-08:00

star was from a template found at www.oriland.com thanks to Agata Pfister who made a card with this star on it in the paper crafts Holiday Cards magazine vol 6. (I have an addiction to magazines I think) on page 28

blessings - K

2011-12-08T06:14:00.000-08:00

a painting inspired from an artist featured in on eof Stampington's magazines that I can't quite put my finger on at this moment... sorry

blessings -K

scraps

2011-12-04T06:12:00.000-08:00

I love using up my scraps and that is what I did to make this card. Although the background gets covered up a bit...

blessings -K

not quite fall themed but thats ok

2011-11-30T06:11:00.000-08:00

one of my favorites
(used my cuttlebug for the alphabet)

blessings - K

2011-11-25T11:04:00.000-08:00

card jacked from the paper crafts "card ideas for paper crafters" vol. 1 magazine. "hello friend" card on page 115 by Chan Vuong

blessings - K

2011-11-20T06:00:00.000-08:00

I copied this idea from an ad in the stampers sampler, I think it is on the cover of take ten for Autumn 2011.

blessings - K

anyone here yet?

2011-11-15T06:58:00.000-08:00

a super simple card, just use your favorite punch and some scraps of color to complement your background card color and add your needed sentiment. I love easy

blessings - K

In Christ alone

2011-11-12T06:50:00.000-08:00

This was inpsired from a magazine article in the summer 2011 Art Journaling on page 41 from artist Donna Dugone-Anami

paint, alcohol inks, tattered angels misters
blessings - K

still going

2011-11-07T06:48:00.000-08:00

a fall birthday wish...

supplies: stampin up inks and punches; leaves are stamps from inkadinkadoo

another one..

2011-11-02T06:45:00.000-07:00

I will try to post bi-weekly, weekly, I haven't decided yet... but here is another card...

supplies: Stampin Up! birthday stamp and bakers twine; duck stamp Victorine Originals vostamps.com

back but are you out there yet?

2011-10-30T10:37:00.000-07:00

Here I am,

giving this another try.

Can't promise I will be reliable,

I can't promise I won't ever take a leave of absence,

I can't promise the pictures will be top notch (actually, I can promise they won't be),

I can't promise great things.

I only have one thing I can promise anyone and that is if you believe in Jesus Christ as your Savior you will have eternal life, but that is another topic which I am willing to go into any time but for now I am just going to share creations, made by me, talent from God.

I won't include alot of words (not including this post ;) )

I will try to share where I got the idea, supplies etc from if I remember, which I can tell you isn't likely.

Here we go and welcome back (if anyone is there)..

supplies: candy treat bags Stampin Up!; puff pillow boxes, black trim was from a Martha Stewart punch; Stampin Up! punches etc.

until next time...

God Bless - K

snow days and cards

2010-12-01T06:38:00.000-08:00

I have to admit. I LOVE snow days! We had one yesterday and are 2 hours late today. It is wonderful! I may not think that in June when we are making them up but at least there is a light at the end of the tunnel that is pretty close then.

I have been busy, busy, busy organizing my craft supplies. I have come to the conclusion that I am a hoarder. I keep everything, get more, and save more. Often times, waiting for the perfect craft to use that supply on. What is the perfect craft? Is there one? My heart is in each piece so I am not sure what it is I am waiting for. Plus, I seem to, ahem, forget that I have such supplies just waiting for the perfect craft to go on.

Anyway, here are a couple of cards I have been working on.

(this one is a lift from one I saw in Card Creations vol. 2)

this one will be going to my special niece. It is folded over on the bottom in the inside to hold a gift card. Works great with 12x12 paper because you have that extra inch to do it with.

Well, have a great day! Many blessings! -K

here I am...

2010-11-19T10:03:00.001-08:00

been busy with some big shows like Clara City and Cantebury. Only a few left...

A day off. I love them! Hardly get done what I think in my head I should but still, they are wonderful! I just have to show you what is my latest "thing."

It is called zentangles. I think it is a fancy term for fancy doodling. I am enjoying it though. Off to make some cards! maybe some jewelry, maybe even squeeze some scrapping in!

until the next time - blessings! -K

sabbatical

2010-11-07T18:49:00.000-08:00

I will be back.

Just taking a little break here to

catch up on things there...

and there...

and there

Blessings! -K

little boys

2010-10-29T16:47:00.001-07:00

my 2 boys

4 other little boys

dirt

nerf guns

treasure hunts

football and baseball cards

more dirt

noise

tumbling

dirt

dirt and

dirt

I will post again if I survive the night...

Blessings - K :)

age and beauty

2010-10-25T16:20:00.000-07:00

We celebrated birthdays this weekend. My son's, my mother's and my Grandmother's (on my dad's side). One is 7, one is 62, and one is 88. I am not sure why age gets everyone in such a tizzy because from what I see of it, a person only gets more beautiful with age, inside and outside. With the beauty on the outside there is so much beauty on the inside, along with so much wisdom and a plethora of life stories. We just need to take the time to listen...

I made my Grandma cards for her birthday... she appreciates those things. The first card I made using a stampin up stamp and I got the idea from my stampin Up! demonstrator: Paula Geier

She hosts a stampin group and makes beautiful cards for us to make and take home.

The second card uses a stampin up! embossing folder and the 3rd card is used with stampin up and daily bread stamps.

Have a blessed week! -K

Monday... here we go

2010-10-25T04:12:00.000-07:00

Perfect Pot Roast

2 tbsp vegetable oil

1 (3 lb) beef chuck roast

1 large onion, diced

1 (1 oz) pkg dry italian salad dressing mix

1 (1 oz) pkg dry ranch dressing mix

1 (1.2 oz) pkg dry brown gravy mix

1 (14.5 oz) can beef broth

Heat roast in skillet with oil, browning roast on all sides. Place in slow cooker. In bowl, combine Italian mix, ranch mix, and gravy mix. Sprinkle over rast. Pour in beef both and add onion. Cook overnight 8 - 12 hours.

MIA

2010-10-22T05:29:00.000-07:00

not really, more like, MEA! 2 days off from school but super busy ones. I had my nieces over last night. They worked. They played. They worked some more. They played some more. We all crashed. Today we are going to the mall to sell all of their "works." It is " enterprising kids" day at the mall. They are excited. I am somewhat excited. I hope it goes well. I hope they are not disappointed. I hope they remember all the fun they had getting ready for it.
Blessings -K

enabler

2010-10-19T04:26:00.000-07:00

Hope you all had a wonderful weekend... I just wanted to share a few sites that have some super-fabulous deals going on daily. Each day on some, a different deal is offered. On some sites you can shop from past deals and on others you can only buy what is available for that day. If you are watching your budget, or lacking in will-power you may want to skip this post. This is not for the faint-hearted.
For those who have a money tree in the back yard, shop away! :)

www.craftysteals.com
www.cropchocolate.com
www.frugalities.com
http://store.scenicroutepaper.com
www.peachycheap.com

Blessings - K

breakfast...it's whats for dinner

2010-10-18T05:37:00.000-07:00

Breakfast...mmmm. my favorite meal. anytime. any day.

Hash Brown Egg Bake

1 package (32 oz.) frozen cubed hash brown potatoes, thawed (can use shredded)
1 pound sliced bacon ( I use sausage, your choice)
1 cup (4 oz.) shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 to 1/2 tsp salt (I use lawry's)
8 eggs
2 cups milk
dash paprika

In a large bowl, combine hash browns, bacon (sausage), 1/2 cup cheese and salt. Spoon into a greased 12 x 9 in. baking dish. In a bowl, beat eggs and milk until smooth; pour over hash brown mixture. Sprinkle with paprika. Bake, uncovered at 350 for 45-50 minutes or until golden. Top with remaining cheese.

This can be prepared the night before and refrigerated. Just take out 30 minutes prior to cooking.

enjoy!
blessings - K

This is the day...

2010-10-17T04:22:00.000-07:00

this is the day that the Lord hath made,
that the Lord hath made.
We will rejoice,
we will rejoice and be glad in it,
and be glad in it.
This is the day that the Lord hath made,
we will rejoice and be glad in it.
This is the day,
this is the day that ...
the...
Lord...
hath...
made.

blessings -K

plans for scrapping...

2010-10-15T05:08:00.000-07:00

Here is what I am currently working on...

viking training camp scrapbook of the boys and Nick this summer

and also what I hope to be working on this weekend. You never know though, what the weekend has in store :) hopefully, some scrapping time. I have been meaning to do this album for the boys before school started, I don't know about you, but since school started I haven't gotten a darn thing done! This weekend promises to be slow, non-active, peaceful and perfect for some creative time. Life always seems to throw in a few spontaneous moments that were not in my plan. What to do? God gave me a husband that is kind of like that so I have, over the years learned to "roll with it" more often than not... it takes a while, and some days are definelty easier than others but you can either smile or frown, laugh or cry, roll with it or have a breakdown. Rolling is more fun.

Have a blessed weekend! - K

more pics

2010-10-14T04:57:00.000-07:00

I didn't just paint I "jeweled" too...

hoping to scrap this weekend...

hoping. -K

Weekend pictures

2010-10-12T04:59:00.000-07:00

What I thought would be a nice weekend scrapbooking and living at a "slower" pace resulted in working and not as slow a pace as one would have liked. However, it was relaxing, rewarding and totally worth it. I spent Saturday "working" - I use that term loosely as painting on canvases to sell isn't really work to me. Although sometimes it can get to feel like I have to do it rather than just enjoy it, you know, it's all about the numbers... but it really isn't. Painting, like scrapping, stamping, crafting is such a joy to me. A gift, I believe. Sometimes, I even really like the results but most often it is the process I truly enjoy.

Any good ideas for scripture/quotes/sayings for signs for me? I am always looking for new ones!

Blessings-K

go Vikes!!!

2010-10-11T04:54:00.000-07:00

Monday night football with the Vikings and Moss ! Here is a great recipe for something quick, easy and game-worthy.

Oven Ham Sammies

16 oz. thin sliced ham
12 slices of swiss cheese
12 small dinner rolls, (Hawaiin rolls are good, my kids don't like them though)
1/2 cup butter, melted
2 tsp onion flakes
1 tsp poppy seeds
1 tsp worcestershire Sauce
1/2 tsps ground mustard

put ham and cheese in between sliced rolls. Mix all other ingredients and spoon over sandwiches. Let set overnight or several hours. Bake at 350' for 15 min. Then serve.

Also a great option for book club or other home parties.

Blessings! - K

all creatures great and small...

2010-10-09T08:48:00.000-07:00

I know God is the creator of all things great and small but right now I am struggling with His small creation(s). I opened my glove box and saw a little nest. Eek, a mouse nest! We had one in there 2 years ago but haven't since so periodically I will open the glove box and let out a sigh of relief, this time though there was no sigh only a silent aHHHH!!! and then the feeling of mice crawling all over. I do have to say I have never actually seen one in the car - alive ;) but once you know they are there you imagine them crawling up your pant's legs, peeping out of the vents, running across your toes in your sandals etc. I should never peek in the glove box while driving because then you have that feeling the whole way home and boy, can that feel like forever! I did have some traps in the trunk with the wheel and found a dead one there so I am hoping that is all... it only happens when I park the car by the woods. Even if only for 1 day. I have that car booby trapped now though. If one gets in, I will get it.

God, I thank you for all your creativity but I may be talking to you about this one when I see you face to face...

blessings - K
ps better the car than the house!

never give up

2010-10-08T04:48:00.001-07:00

You think by that title I was going to have a really deep post... well, that is for our MN Twins. They can come back, they can get 3 wins, they CAN do this!

GO Twins!!!

Blessings -K

Monday meal ideas turns to Tasteful Tuesday

2010-10-05T04:40:00.000-07:00

Had to show you the card from the weekend before I could share my culinary skills :) Back to normal scheduling ...

Cream Cheese Cinnamon Bars

2 packages crescent (cresent?) rolls
2 - 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese
1 egg yolk
1 egg white
1 cup sugar
cinnamon and sugar mixture

Lay down one package of cresent rolls in a 9x13 pan

Mix sugar, cream cheese, and egg yolk. Spread over cresent rolls

Lay other pkg of crescent rolls over the mixture

Spread egg white and sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar mixture.

Bake at 350' for 30 minutes.

Yummmmm... who doesn't love cream cheese! "Oh taste and see that the Lord is good!" Psalm 34:8

Blessings - K

marrying your best friend... all over again

2010-10-04T04:17:00.000-07:00

we went to a wedding this weekend, the church was beautiful, the bride exquisite, the ceremony lovely, but nothing beats renewing your vows with your best friend. We hadn't been to a wedding together in quite some time so I truely enjoyed being able to 1, be out with my husband and 2, renewing our vows (to ourselves of course) as the couple themselves were saying theirs for the first time. I love that my husband is my best friend.

Here is a card I made for the newlyweds...

Have a blessed week! - K

beading beauties

2010-09-30T05:46:00.000-07:00

I taught a beaded watch class last night to a bunch of wonderful ladies. I enjoyed it more than I thought... meaning I didn't get so nervous and stutter and mess up as much as I thought I would. It was fun.

The ladies picked out a watch face... and made two bracelets to attach to it. They can be worn seperate or together. I have been making these a long time but never thought about teaching it. Then again, there are alot of things I never thought about doing but you never know...

have a blessed day! -K

who am I?

2010-09-28T04:54:00.000-07:00

Just a quick quote from a favorite of mine...

"You are not defined by anything that happened to you or anything you've done. You are defined by who you are in Christ."

need that reminder sometimes when my calendar is full of "to do's" and life gets so busy...
blessings -K

Thick and Chewy

2010-09-27T04:38:00.000-07:00

You know those cookies I posted a pic of last week? Well, here is the recipe... go, make, enjoy!

Thick and Chewy Cookies

1 cup butter
4 cups peanut butter (16 tbsp = 1 cup)
2 cups brown sugar
2 cups granulated sugar
2 tsp vanilla
6 eggs
8 cups oatmeal
2 cups flour
4 tsp baking soda
2 cups chocolate chips (and/or M&M's)
optional: 1/2 cup nuts

Cream butter, peanut butter, vanilla and sugars. Add eggs. Stir in oatmeal, soda, flour, chips/m&Ms and nuts. Drop by spoonful onto cookie sheet. Bake at 350' for 10-12 minutes. I let sit about 10 minutes on pan and then place onto counter and let cool before putting away. This helps them to "stay" together more after baking.

This recipe makes a TON of cookies. You are more than welcome to half it but they freeze well too and taste great out of the freezer also!

Enjoy and have a blessed week! -K

rings and cookies

2010-09-22T04:59:00.000-07:00

they go hand in hand... because, well, cookies go with everything! I had a little time last night to get some rings done for our upcoming show in Fort Ranson. Not as much as I would have liked but prioritites, it is all about the priorities. I had to make cookies first :) We are having Youth Group over to our house tonight and you need some sweets after a meal of course! Anyway, off to wake my kiddos so they can get ready for school.

Have a wonderfully, awesome, blessed day! -K

I have class...

2010-09-21T05:33:00.000-07:00

beading class that is. I get to teach some sweet girls some beading today. We are making 3 simple bracelets since the age range is somewhat wide. Not quite sure on how I will do it yet but I have 8 hours to figure it out :) Do I design all 3 bracelets and make them copy them? Do I design one to get them going and let them design the rest? If so, then how do I distribute the beads etc. I am leaning on the last one but trying to figure out if I should have the beads all handed out beforehand or let them come and pick them out... such major dilemmas! Like I said though, it should be fun.

Also, I am in the process of being persuaded to teach a scarf class. I have been making these scarves for a few years but recently I guess they are the craze, I am just so ahead of the times, ha ha ha. Anyway, we will see... like I mentioned yesterday, life is already busy. I need to learn to say no sometimes.

blessings! - K

Monday Madness

2010-09-20T06:38:00.000-07:00

Each week seems to add something more to my to-do list. I should be thankful to have "things" to do... you know what they say about idle hands. :)

Here is a recipe for you to try this week:

Special Delivery Chicken
2 cups (16 oz) sour cream
2 tsp poppy seeds
1 can cream of chicken soup
2 1/2 cups cubed cooked chicken
1 3/4 cups butter flavored (like keebler crackers) cracker crumbs (about 36 crackers)
1/2 cup melted butter

In a bowl, combine the sour crea, soup and poppy seeds. Stir in chicken. Pour into greased 11x7x2 baking dish. Combine crackers and butter and sprinkle over the top. Bake at 350' for 25-30 minutes until heated through.

have a blessed week! - K

paint, piano and party

2010-09-15T05:25:00.000-07:00

not neccessarily in that order... but I have been painting. I have an order to fulfill plus some big shows (craft) coming up. My son starts piano today and we are planning a party for my dh who will be turning the big 40! I am trying to take each day and enjoy the moments, not just catch my breath in between. More importantly, I need to remember who is in control.

Blessings - K

2010-09-14T04:50:00.001-07:00

Saw this on a post from a family member... absolutely love it, no idea who said it but I pray it for our daughter.
"A womans heart should be so lost in God that a man needs to seek Him in order to find her."

blessings - K

great meal ideas at your fingertips

2010-09-12T15:24:00.001-07:00

I love the internet! There is so much out there to learn, discover etc. Although I have learned to give myself only a certain amount of time or my whole day is lost on the internet. For meal ideas the resources are endless. Here are several of my favorite meal idea sites:

www.allrecipes.com
http://thepioneerwoman.com/tasty-kitchen/
http://twopeasandtheirpod.com/
http://www.bakerella.com/

these are just a few... but my favorites.
Hope you had a great weekend and may you have a blessed week!- K

Faith

2010-09-10T04:49:00.001-07:00

"If you do not stand firm in your faith, you will not stand at all."
Isaiah 7:9b

enough said,
have a blessed weekend-K

fashion, boys and no idea

2010-09-09T05:24:00.000-07:00

I have 2 boys. 2. One is 10 and one is 6. The 10 year old can pick up clothes off the floor that he has been wearing for the last decade and put them on without a thought about it. I pull out the 10 year old's drawers to clean and discard too small shirts and find the top totally messy but underneath the mess of the top 2-3 shirts are the same, neat pile of folded shirts that I put there the last time I went through his drawers. The 10 year old prefers dirty, ripped jeans and dirty white t-shirts... only because he doesn't care if they are clean or not. Actually, I don't think that he doesn't care he just doesn't think about it. This same 10 year, last year at winter, told me he needed new boots, exciting his mom, whom he has never told he needed anything new before, of the clothes nature anyway. His mom, (me), not wanting to show too much excitement for fear of scaring him, says to show her the boots to see if indeed, he really needed a new pair. He proceeds to show his mother a pair of boots with holes in the back, sides and fronts by the toes, not to mention ripped all over. (she had been getting angry with him about dirty socks before this point). Said mom was mortified as she works at the school were he goes and wondered, (worried) what the teachers and paras thought about her mothering skills. She went right out and bought the 10 year old boy new boots. Albeit, on sale of course :)
What about the 6 year old you ask? The six year is a picky, stubborn, knows what he wants to wear boy. I would call him a fashion conscience boy but he has yet to learn that just because it has a white stripe on it that it doesn't go with something that has a white dot on it. We fight, I mean, debate almost daily about what he is going to wear. It isn't that he has to have name brand clothes, or look like the kids in magazines as he mostly likes to wear warm up pants and athletic shirts it is just that he is so the opposite of my other boy who gladly let me pick out clothes for him until I made him start doing it. I got tired of having to pick out clothes every morning for my 10 year old and decided he was old enough to do it... I wished he would care about what he was wearing.

Motto: be careful what you wish for

Blessings! -K

hump day

2010-09-08T06:44:00.000-07:00

It is Wednesday, the middle of the week, half way done or half way to go, depending on how you look at it. It was nice to be back in school and seeing the kids, the teachers, paras, etc. I wasn't ready but I enjoyed it. Life kind of works that way, depending on how your outlook is ... is the glass half full or half empty? I am a half full girl myself, at least most times, those times I am not I wonder why and usually give myself a stern talking to and my glass becomes half full once again.

We had a wonderful time Monday celebrating birthdays, enjoying our last day of "freedom" before school started. I even fell into the trend of cupcake toppers... I seen them all over the internet and when I see something all over I am apt to turn away from it as, let's face it, I am not a trend follower. But, these were really cute and the kids got a kick out of them. We took family pictures and this was one of our "out takes" (I think that is what it is called!)

The birthday peeps!

My trendy cupcakes... All of the grandkids... I wish I wouldn't have gotten their faces so light... so much to learn!

Hope you all had a fun and laborless day!

Blessings - K

School Organizer

2010-09-07T07:00:00.000-07:00

I know I have shown this before here but thought it warranted another visit as school is starting and the papers will be downpouring once again like the rain we have had this summer! This has really worked for me and I love being able to look in the kids backpacks, sift through the papers I need to look at and then, well, make 2 piles. To keep and to discard and let's face it the discard pile is quite a big larger but the keep pile can be put away right away, no lost papers, or roughed up papers, they can be filed away asap. All you need is an accordion file folder and some time. If not time then just the file folder for now. I have only my youngests completely done, my oldest half-way done and my middle child's, my poor middle child's, not done at all. But it is on my "to-do" list!

back front

middle child's oldest child's

supplies: accordion file folder with 12 tabs for each grade level (k-12); I used red tape for adhereing paper; unity stamps used on my youngest child's completed folder; basic grey paper used on my oldest child's half completed folder; your choice of scrap book paper! I used a school kit from Autumn Leaves I believe for my youngest and it came with tags, ribbon etc. this works well so you have everything to embellish with and it all matches!

Have a great school year! Blessings -K

Meals on Monday

2010-09-06T07:01:00.000-07:00

today's meal idea comes from my awesome sister-in-law... she is such a wonderful woman, full of love and kindness, such a strong Christian, I have learned so much from her over the years, not because she speaks non stop but because of how she lives and her actions.

rambling, I know... but she really is neat!

Easy Chicken in a Crockpot

4-6 boneless, skinless, chicken breasts
1 can cheddar cheese soup
1 can cream of chicken soup
onion powder
rice or egg noodles prepared as directed on package

Wash and rinse chicken. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic, etc... (in other words, whatever floats your boat). Dump everything into crockpot and mix well. Cook 6-8 hours on low or 5 hours on high. Serve chicken and sauce over rice or egg noodles.

this is a great one for when one is at work, school etc all day and wants to come home to a meal ready to go!
Enjoy the last day of summer and blessings to you as the school year begins again!
-K

Faith Friday

2010-09-03T05:00:00.000-07:00

I don't know if you have ever heard of Louie Giglio but I came upon him maybe a year or two ago and he just blows me away... if you have never seen this awesome video I encourage you to do so... also, check out his other videos too, he is very blessed in speaking God's truth... here is the link: Louie Giglio

Know that you are fearfully and wonderfully made... (Psalm 139:14)
Have a blessed weekend with family and friends -K

Thrifty Thursday

2010-09-02T07:00:00.000-07:00

I do alot of shopping online, I think it started with having 3 kids that go everywhere with me and the convenience of not going anywhere but to the computer. I find lots of deals and good bargains and make sure to get free shipping. However, there are a few times where what I ordered didn't quite pan out the way I hoped. You know when you look at something and think how good it looks on the model and think I could look that good but forget your measurements are quite different than the 16 year old model? I ordered a white dress that was darling but not roomy enough in the chest area... I had an gray t-shirt that hadn't really stood the test of time and I put them together... it is still hanging in my work area though since I need something else... I am thinking something around the waist... it will come to me or the dress will become a skirt or something. That leads me to look around the rest of my work area and see other "unfinished" items... often times I work on things and it isn't going so smoothly or I am interrupted and lose the flow I might have had before so the item(s) sit until I look at them and creativity hits (or I hope it does!)

Not sure I want to add anything to this...maybe a quote or bible verse

another painted piece, I love the colors some beads waiting to be made into jewelry...

Have a blessed day! - K

wonderful wednesday

2010-09-01T08:13:00.000-07:00

Why the need to post a title with the same letter as the day? I don't know, maybe I am brushing up on my english skills and practicing alliterations for the upcoming school year. There are alot of things that I do that don't make sense... ask my husband :). Sometimes posting becomes rambling as you just think and type where when you talk it is usually filtered... anyway, I am digressing... I just have a quick post today ... first, a view of our front yard, it was ethereal this morning... beautiful, still, quiet, cool, perfect time for my morning bible reading.

Second, a card I made for our Church stamping group... I had to come up with something for teen birthdays... I always go back to stars. Stars and fish... my favorites, but not starfish. I think I should have titled today's post, "wacky wednesday"

Blessings K

tuesday tutorial - fabric flowers

2010-08-31T07:09:00.000-07:00

Ok, I have been working and thinking on this one for a bit and while the end result isn't perfect it is ok. I like it. I think. I plan on making more and tweaking and improving... we will see. I have seen handmade flowers everywhere! headbands. belts. shirts. etc. etc. etc. So I tried my hand at a belt. Here are my results...

While this isn't really a tutorial since I haven't quite gotten this down pat here are the links to several sites that helped me along the way...

http://www.rufflesandstuff.com/2010/05/grosgrain-belt-tutorial.html

http://thedomesticdiva.wordpress.com/2007/11/26/embellishing-is-sew-creative/

http://www.tipjunkie.com/fabric-flower-tutorials/

http://heyjenrenee.blogspot.com/2010/03/fabric-flower-tutorial.html

http://ilove2create.blogspot.com/2007/09/tutorial-fabric-rose.html

I have done some t-shirts with these ideas and the possibilities running through my mind are endless.

Enjoy your Tuesday! I will be celebrating mine with my 10 year old birthday boy!

Blessings -K

Monday meal idea

2010-08-30T05:02:00.000-07:00

It is hot, sticky and super muggy and it is only 7 am! I am so thankful for air conditioning! We had a wonderfully busy weekend but reality is hitting today... I have to go into work! Then I only have 4 more days off before school starts and my to do list needs to be done. Sunday school will also be starting along with piano lessons and flag football. I am trying to think of ways to be more organized so we can still eat meals at 5:30 and not 7, so laundry will be clean, the house somewhat clean and so forth... this is where I remind myself I am not alone. Millions of women go through this but we each need to remember where our strength comes ... here are a few great passages:
"Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his fave always." Psalm 105:4
"I can do everything through Him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:13

It is only when I rely on myself I fall totally flat on my face.

Now you may be asking what any of this has to do with a Monday meal idea... well, here is a recipe :) This is one of my daughter's favorites!

Chow Mein Hotdish

1 lb ground beef, browned
1 can chicken rice soup
1 can cream of chicken soup
chow mein noodles

Pour into a casserole dish, cover with chow mein noodles and bake at 350' for 30 minutes.

Have a blessed Monday -K

party, party, party

2010-08-26T06:04:00.000-07:00

We have been partying it up here at the Bents'
Yesterday my dear daughter invited 4 girls for a day of fun to celebrate her birthday and let's face it, a last bash before school starts again. (so not ready...)
Today, my dear son is inviting 4 friends (along with a younger brother for his younger brother - read that again :) ) to enjoy a day of fun and to celebrate his birthday and freedom before school starts... hence I have nothing to post today ! I will be back with projects, favorites, etsy updates etc. Stay tuned...
God's Blessings! - K

Tuesday Tutorial

2010-08-24T07:00:00.000-07:00

Here is a bad example of photography and a first attempt at a tutorial... enjoy :)

To make the flower on yesterday's card is simply tearing and taping:

Step 1: tear about a 1 inch strip off a 12 x 12 piece of cardstock

When finished you will have one rough, torn side and one straight side.

Step 2: start folding the strip in "pleats", making sure to form it into a circle as you go with the rough, torn side on the outside of the flower (not in the center)

When you have folded it completely it should resemble this picture here...

Step 3: Open up your folded flower

Step 4: place adhesive on the inside of the strip, not the torn side. All the way along the paper.

Step 5: refold your flower, this time it should just kind of fall into place as you have already made the creases and folds and the adhesive will hold it all together.

Step 6: you could just add a brad or button at this time but I tore a small circle to use as part of the center of my flower and adhered with more adhesive. Pretty intelligent I know :)

Step 7: Use a sharp tool, this is from Stampin Up! to make holes to attach a button with, or if you like a brad.

Step 8: Use some embroidery floss or thread to attach the button, sewing all the way through will aid in keeping the flower together also.

Here is the finished product.

You could also tear petal shaped paper and adhere together and add button to top also... I love making flowers and it is great to be able to choose and mix colors according to your project.

Hope you enjoyed this attempt of a tutorial and bad photography... who knows there may be more some day!

Blessings- K

Monday Meal idea...

2010-08-23T06:59:00.000-07:00

I made this over the weekend... I am posting the original recipe and my tweaked recipe...

Turkey Cheese Crock-Pot sandwiches:

6 c cooked shredded turkey

3 c shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 c mayonnaise

1 can cream of chicken soup

1 1/2 c chopped celery

2/3 c chopped onion

Heat in crockpot until cheese is melted.

Kristine's tweaked recipe

6 c cooked shredded chicken

1 can cheese soup

1/2 c mayonnaise

1 can cream of chicken soup

1 1/2 c chopped celery

chopped green onions

about 1 tsp lawry's seasoning salt

Heat in crockpot until warm. Serve on buns.

Tweaking is a neccessity if you are out of ingredients :)

Also, some crafting was done this weekend... we are praying for our sister and her family as they mourn the loss of her father-in-law... although celebrating that he was a Christian and is now in heaven.

supplies: Versamark with cross stamp from Stampin Up! Refuge and Strength set for background. Really Rust ink from SU!, Stamps from: Our Daily Bread - Scripture collection 1 and Flourished Christian symbols. MM spiral journal book - 5th avenue; nestabillities and SU! puncturing tool

I am hoping to do a tutorial on the flower, not that it is anything amazing I just know I like to see how things are done when I happen on something on the great world wide web.

the card features my favorite bible verse: "Fear not for I am with you, be not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand." Isaiah 41:10

Blessings- K

these are a few of my favorite things

2010-08-20T09:37:00.000-07:00

SHOES!!! Dahlia flowers - love them. You can't tell on here but the front is more of an orange color and the back is fuschia, beautiful!

Quotes - this is one of my fav's: "wherever you go, no matter what the weather, always bring your own sunshine."

Dill Pickle chips, especially with a Diet Dr Pepper!

chai tea! mmmmm... I love tastefully simple's chai tea but buy pacific chai tea since it is readily available at my grocery store.

Blogs! especially www.thepioneerwoman.com

Also, I love looking at www.etsy.com

beautiful stuff, super talented people...

I finally added some stuff to my store also, (sorry, I know this is a plug but I am hoping to get the word out :)

Have a blessed weekend! More updates to my Etsy shop coming next week as well as more blogging! - K

Believe it or not...

2010-08-19T07:11:00.000-07:00

I have been busy thinking, playing, creating ... of ideas to keep active on my blog. I have several items I would love to show you but I need to be busier on how to take good photos! Yikes, I missed the boat on picture taking. I can't seem to get a good shot of some of my jewelry but I will keep trying. I would like to list items again on Etsy and maybe each week (every other week??) add some more. Anyway, here are several things I have done and got a somewhat decent picture of...

a card I made to send to friends of ours that let us stay at their house while we were at Vikings Training camp...
a sneak peak of some jewelry I finished but can't take a picture of that is worthy of it...

2 of the cutest, funnest boys I know...

a big part of our everyday lives... wrestling.

I will leave you with this, my inspiration for my next work ...

"Follow the way of love." 1 Corinthians 14:1

(thanks to you who are still here :) )

God's Blessings - K

no excuses

2010-08-17T06:39:00.000-07:00

I am here. Just been busy enjoying life, kids, water, etc. Thinking of goals and things I would like to do and talking with a friend, I thought I should get back to my blog, if it will still consider itself mine since I rarely, I do mean rarely, stop by here anymore. Things running through my head - recipes to share, projects to create and post, jewelry to design, and passages that speak to my heart and hopefully to yours. Today will be short and sweet but I will TRY, to post again soon, I mean it. :)

"Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. " Matthew 6:21

snow day!!!!

2010-02-08T08:08:00.000-08:00

I love snow days! I finally can get caught up on a few things, not all of them but at least some. I went scrapping a couple of weekends ago now and finally have time to upload and share! I always think about submitting but I just don't take the time to write every source I used (paper, stamps etc) and my pictures aren't always that great so this is a place where I can share in a fast and easy way. I had a blast scrapping with some new friends and it was just plain fun, time to get away although it goes way too fast! enjoy the snow - I love Minnesota!

God Bless - K

scrapping and stamping

2010-01-19T16:43:00.001-08:00

With some free time here and there I have been able to create a bit... just for fun - I love it!

a little baby love with my niece's new baby... so sweet, love that baby smell.

My one true love, even made it on our anniversary... just to celebrate :)

There hasn't been any rhyme or reason to what I scrap. I have all my photos organized by year and event in each box and have randomly picked out what to scrap by whatever grabs my fancy.

I made this card for some neighbor's of ours who recently had an explosion at their house...

that is all for now. Hopefully more to come!

God's blessings!

2010-01-09T19:31:00.000-08:00

(stamps: Our Daily Bread)

(Basic Grey paper - favorite!)

(Enjoying the beautiful MN weather, which I love, below zero or

above! it is what MN is all about)

Enjoying the New Year...

I am not one to make goals or resolutions because I am afraid of failure but this year I have a decided to list my goals out here and hopefully complete them. After all, there aren't "goal police" that come around at the end of the year and fine all of those who failed. right??

My 2010 goals:

1. weight - lose a few, keep it off, but mostly quit agonizing about it

2. read the Bible through - entirely - in one year. So far so good (wahoo 10 days! no goal police for me ;))
3. patience... this is a big one for me, along with it comes more encouragement to those I live with. I am actually tough to live with. I have high expectations but could have them with more patience and encouragement. I need to quit letting my personality split like Dr Jekyl and Mr Hyde.

4. Follow through... when I say something I mean. Especially with the kids and discipline. So I also need to watch what I say.

5. Pay more attention to Nick and myself time. We need to go on dates again...

6. Embrace each day, and each moment in each day, the good and the bad because they are all there for a reason.

Here's a start... I don't want it too large, that would be just setting myself up for failure.

I CAN DO THIS...

God's Blessings - K

10 things I am thankful for...

2009-11-27T09:55:00.000-08:00

10. US - really I think I take for granted the blessings of living in the US gives us
9. the lake
8. food
7. home
6. our jobs
5. friends
4. our families
3. my kids
2. my husband
1. God - I wish I could pass this on and let people know what a blessing God is (that is an understatement) but I will just continue planting the seed and letting God do the rest, as a good friend of mine says...

now for a top ten list not so serious...
10. going for walks
9. Erberts and Gerberts the Narmer
8. sales
7. 4 seasons
6. chocolate
5. Survivor - love this show
4. chai tea
3. baseball hats
2. my stretched out, worn out comfy pajama pants
1. my craft supplies

not neccessarily in that order but you get the gist of it..

have a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend...
God bless -K

life goes on...

2009-11-16T19:24:00.001-08:00

no matter what is going on or not going on in your life, life continues to move whether you're ready or not. I am ready for it to be a bit slower but I told myself to not skip through it. I catch myself saying, just make it through this week and then get to the next but I am missing out on the moment that way. I need to think to myself and say, "self, This is the day the Lord has made, REJOICE and be glad in it." Hopefully, my self listens...

because before you know it....

that next week you were wishing for is here and everything in between passed you right by.

a warm summer picture to remind us of the sun
(Unity Stamps, Tattered Angels ink etc)

JUST REMEMBER - God's blessings - K

faith

2009-10-25T16:09:00.000-07:00

we talked/learned more about faith today at Sunday school today... faith is defined as believing in God even though we can't see Him or talk to Him face to face... however, every where I look throughout a day, I see evidence of God... I have talked to Him, I have felt His touch. Every time I look at my children ( well, not Every time but most), I see God. Every night as I look out the window and see the sunset, I see God. Times when life makes me want to curl up into a ball, I feel God give me comfort and peace and wrap His loving arms around me. How can you doubt? Still people do.

Deep thought Sunday by Kristine Bents ...

evidence: can't you imagine God just letting a small portion of His light shining out... we couldn't take it all.

speaking of evidence... you know Halloween is around the corner when you see Wolverine doing his homework...

have a wonderful week, take time and look for evidence of our awesome God! -K

just because...

2009-09-18T18:15:00.000-07:00

it's been a while and I am short on words... here are some pics - work, friends and family...
have a blessed weekend -k

stamp storage

2009-08-21T09:27:00.000-07:00

I thought I would share where I get my stamp storage. First off though, I need to give credit to Patter for giving me this idea, you can see how it works here. She has some good pictures while I don't have any to share :) - too lazy I guess ;) I found this site where you can buy both the case and the pages to store the stamps on or just one or the other. I usually buy just the laminated pages to store the stamps on and then buy the case at univenture where Patter suggested. Just make sure you look at the sizes closely. I like the big size, they fit a Unity KOM on one page. The smaller sizes work nice too and GinaK has pages to fit inside of those.

Anyway, I just wanted to share these sites, as I know how frustrating it can be digging through piles of stamps and not sure what you have. I also created a binder with all my stamp images in it (I will have to post a picture later) seperated by wood mounted (which I have stored in drawers), Stampin Up!, Unity and clear stamps. this way when I am ready to create and want a stamp, I look through my binder of images and find one that "speaks" to me, pull it from wherever it is placed and start creating. I would like to be even more organized by grouping them in sentiments, occassions etc. although they are somewhat grouped already like that but only the wood mounted with the wood mounted and clear with clear etc.

Now off to get my son's birthday party boys and get the party started!
God's blessings! K

pieces of my heart

2009-08-17T14:00:00.000-07:00

(still need to figure out the whole adding image thing so they aren't backwards, up side down and everything in between!)

God's blessings -K

days of summer

2009-08-11T10:05:00.000-07:00

We have had a glimpse of summer these past couple of days... pretty nice.

Just thought I would share some things I have been working on, the finished pieces that is, I even did some for our house. This is on the wall when leaving our house, it has one of my favorite quotes, "wherever you go, no matter what the weather, always bring your own sunshine."

My star wall in our family room, using the verse from Philippians 2:15art work above our bed, with a new favorite quote of mine, "once in a while, in the middle of an ordinary life, love gives us a fairy tale."a new canvas I did. I finished over 28 canvases for my folks to take to the next show... now on to jewelry!

have a great week! God Bless - K

hello? hello? any there?

2009-08-06T14:03:00.000-07:00

summer, trips, kids, life, house remodeling, kids, family, life etc etc these are my excuses why it has been about 2 months since I last posted. I guess blogging, as much as I like it, doesn't make my everyday, ever-growing "to-do" list. It should, but honestly, I am really not all that interesting, you all have better things to do. With that said, here's a post :)

Nothing much really, just wanted you to know I am alive, the house is still a work in progress, as am I ;), and life is truly a blessing, not to be taken for granted. I have been creating this summer, although I haven't even scrapbooked one LO this whole summer! Yikes, that is kind of sad but it is coming... I have been doing some work for a teacher, a neighbor, a friend and today, I was caught up I did some for upcoming shows... FUN! Here are some sneak peeks, I will show more later as they come along... you have to understand, as I paint, I grab about 15-20 canvases, a bunch of paint and one brush. I then proceed to paint them all and create a beginning. I then take one at a time and from their humble beginnings I create an individual artwork. Pretty fun and it always makes me smile, I think GOd is the same way when He creates His beuatiful sunsets and sunrises...

before and after

2009-06-08T16:13:00.001-07:00

I know... I don't post for a couple months and now I am a posting machine. I just wanted to show a before and after picture of our house. The last picture is what the house looked like when we bought it 5 years ago. The first and second pictures are what it looks like now... not quite finished but coming along nicely if I must say. I definetly have a very talented handyman for a husband!

a new week

2009-06-08T07:35:00.000-07:00

what a blessing kids can be... my dd made chocolate cake for me on my birthday - she is such a nurturer.

Busy with graduations this weekend and now for more moving up and cleaning up ahead for this week. Exciting though!

God's Blessings- K

5 minute chocolate mug cake:

4 tbsp flour

4 tbsp sugar

2 tbsp cocoa

1 egg

3 tbsp milk

3 tbsp oil

3 tbsp chocolate chips

small splash of vanilla extract

1 large coffee mug

add dry ingredients to mug, and mix well. Add the egg and mix thoroughly.

Pour in the milk and oil to mix well.

Add the chocolate chips and vanilla extract, and mix again.

Put your mug in the microwave and cook for 3 minutes at 1000 watts.

The cake will rise over the top of the mug, but don't be alarmed. Allow to cool a little, and tip out onto a plate if desired. Eat! this can serve 2 if you want to feel slightly more virtuous.

You say it's your birthday...

2009-06-06T12:04:00.001-07:00

it's my birthday too! :) I am banished to the boys room for a bit while my daughter whips me up something special in the kitchen. Can't wait! She is so thoughtful and such a "mother" it just makes me smile.
Carpet layers are busy laying carpet upstairs for my birthday too. Not really for my birthday but it's a nice thought. The kids' anticipation is building, trust me. I promise to post SOON with pictures of the house.
I have been cleaning, throwing, returning, painting and more this first week out of school and today we went to a fishing clinic, so this afternoon, I am just going to bum around. Going to work was a lot easier than summer vacation!
Here are some pics of some canvases I did... and of course some pics of the first real swim of the year, courtesy of Tyler, mine won't be until the water is a wee bit warmer!
Tyler, my cannonball champion, and look at the smile!

this one is going the wrong way but I love the quote:
"Every once in an ordinary life, love gives us a fairy tale."

(pieces of fabric and a felt heart ...)

"keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see the shadows" - Helen Keller

Happy Saturday everyone! -K
(if your name happens to start with an "N" and end with a "K" a big I love you and lots of hugs and kisses from all of us ;) - we miss you!)

whatcha' been doin'?

2009-04-06T19:48:00.000-07:00

oops! Alot of time has gone by but I have been busy watching this:

our two sons wrestling and taking 1st and 2nd at state this past weekend!

painting these:

finally getting some product for upcoming shows!

and enjoying this sweet little one:

we don't see her often enough but we sure love her (you too Megan and Robert ;) )

now to get back to my Bible Study... and some more painting, but this time on the house! I will have to post some of those pics soon.

God Bless! -K

Still kickin' ...

2009-03-08T14:14:00.001-07:00

I didn't fall off the face of the earth, nor did I sell all of my crafty things to give it all up for lent. Life as we all know, just gets busy. Most of the time in a good way, because it usually involves family and friends. I have been playing catch up also with Patter's His Holy Name challenge. I was a couple of weeks behind but am happy to say I am right on now. Here were the past attributes we studied: Sovereign, Protector, Righteous and Creator. It is so exciting to be spending time in God's word, learning more about HIM. Too cool! Have a blessed week! - K

TFL! :)

a dream

2009-02-23T17:22:00.000-08:00

All of my life I have enjoyed creating, whether it was drawing, scrapping, stamping, painting etc. I still enjoy, now perhaps more than ever. It is an extension of myself, and a gift from God who is the most Awesome creator there is. I see His work daily, in my children, in the sunrise as we go to school in the morning, in nature as I walk and in the sunset every night as God paints a new masterpiece that calms my spirit every evening. I am fortunate to get to share this gift, not jsut with my family but with others too. I have been designing stamps for Unity Stamp Co. and it is such a joy when I see something I created come to "life." I am particularly fond of the most recent stamp set, one where I can use that gift to glorify God.

Blessings from Him stamp set

Rain and Flowers stamp set

I will hoepefully being posting again soon! Sooner than last time anyway :) I have some Bible Study pages done and I am hoping to get a chance to create with these new stamps too!

Until then - Blessings to you and yours - K

the "WOW" girl...

2009-02-10T20:27:00.000-08:00

I have the privilege today of getting to be the "WOW" (watch out Wednesday) girl at Unity, and it is a privilege to me to be featured on their blog. I created a couple of projects just for this awesome day.

The first is a fun lo of my dd. She was 3 here, seems like yesterday - yet so long ago at the same time, if that makes any sense (I often don't ). I have been having a blast looking through old photos and scrapping those that just tug at my heart. She was wearing a dance costume that she never performed ... my husband brought her to practice about halfway through the year and after that she never wanted to go again no matter what I promised her, (he thought she might have been embarrassed about falling during practice but we really never figured it out, but the good news is she is over it and just had a dance performance last night :)). We had already bought the costume so she used it plenty of times at home and boy did she look CUTE!

supplies:

Paper: Pink Paislee - Lunch Hour; American Crafts - Moda Bella; KI Memories - Blue Urban Linen

Stamps: Unity Stamps - Love Grows & Our Life Our Stories

Stampin Up! Inks: Brilliant Blue, Pink Passion & YoYo Yellow

My second project I wanted to share is my attempt at organizing all those school papers that my kids bring home and appear about to explode in the current boxes they are residing in. I only have this one done for my youngest and need to do 2 more for the older 2. I like how it turned out. I know they won't hold it all but it should help in getting the "mess/memories" under control and organized. I just used an accordian file folder you can get at Walmart or Target or any office store for that matter. I used the really good red double stick tape to make sure it would last and the paper wouldn't peel off.

Outside of cover

inside, using the files, one for each grade, preschool and Kindergarten in very front.

back of accordian file

Supplies:

Foofala school paper kit

Unity Stamps: School rock Star & Our Life Our Stories

accordian file folder

I wanted to share a couple more LO's I did also for the "So you think you can Scrap" contest over at Scraptivity. Do I really? think I can scrap... well, the contest did give me the little shove I needed to get scrappin so that is a bonus. It is kind of tough since they are doing dance themes and I have two left feet (I know nothing about dancing!)

First lo is "ballet" themed, second is "flameco" ... Unity stamps of course ;)

Well,thanks for sharing "my day" with me and taking time to check it out!

God's blessings - K

can you believe it?

2009-01-25T14:49:00.000-08:00

I was stunned today at church while hanging up a calendar and a friend told me to turn the page to February as next Sunday would be the 1rst!! Where did January go? Probably somewhere in the midst of our remodeling project, maybe behind all those pieces of sheetrock? or under all that sawdust? Yikes! February. I just can't believe it.

I have been feeling kind of house bound lately, going a little stir crazy just because of how cold it is outside. I still try going walking to get out but that is only for 20 minutes. I would love to go out and work in my shed but it really isn't all that inspiring while my teeth are chattering incessantly and my hands are shaking too hard to glue down anything where I want it. So I do alot of reading, alot of computer games and cleaning. Boy, am I ready to have my workspace in the house! I did manage to get my page done for "His Holy Name" Bible Study and didn't lose any appendages while out scrapping :) you can check out all of the pages here.

this is just a doodle page I did while thinking about last week's attribute of God: Holy...

It was kind of fun to just draw, color and write about some of the verses about God and His Holiness... maybe I will do this with each attribute, we will see ;)

this is my page for this week's attribute: Sovereign. I used the recipe stamps from Unity, some old SEI stickers and I kept the study notes in the library pocket. This study is something I look forward to every other week when it comes out but also something that is on my mind throughout the day. Thinking about God and His certain attributes... pretty neat.

Have a great week! K

a winter to remember

2009-01-12T10:44:00.000-08:00

I can't remember this much snow since I was just a kid - oh so long ago :) not really but kind of. Since we got out of school early today I thought I would get a jump on my "to do" list. My blog being one of them. I've been meaning to post more, create more and share more ... we'll see how it turns out.

I did spend some time working on my "His holy name" study that Patter is leading and was truly blessed as I am every time I stick my nose in God's word. We were to pick 2 verses with "holy" in them. I wrote down all the ones that stuck out to me and then narrowed it down to 2. I am so excited to be in this study and knowing that I get to create also. Knowing that at the end of this study I will have a book full of verses and notes and a deeper understanding for God and who He is. Did I say I get to create too? What an awesome time! Here is my page(s) for this study. You can check out all of the participants pages in the Splitcoast Gallery here.

I used AM letter stickers, Unity corner stamp, Stampin Up arrow, scallop and tab punches along with some SU ink. TFL! Come and join too!

I love Mondays, they are full of opportunity! Plus it helps when you get to come home early from "work"!

Have a great week.

PS look for some great new Unity stamps coming out this Thursday!

I'm ready.

2009-01-04T15:39:00.000-08:00

I am ready to go back to school tomorrow. I am ready for the kids to go back to school tomorrow. I am ready to get back to a routine. I am ready to buckle down and exercise and watch what I eat. I am ready for more snow. I am ready to start this awesome Bible Study with Patter. Yep, I am ready for a New Year, a new week and a new study.

this will be my Bible Study book to keep my notes and creations in. I am sooo excited!

Merry Christmas - one more time

2008-12-28T15:43:00.000-08:00

We finally got to have our church Christmas program today. It was canceled last week due to weather and the week before the practice was canceled also because of weather. So it seemed like forever ago that we were preparing for our program. The kids did an amazing job and we are so blessed with the families that go to our church, especially one lady in particular. Her kids are all grown up but she is still involved and does most everything. We would be lost without her...

Anyway, I thought we needed a family picture since we were all dressed up. Unfortunately, we don't seem very photo-genic today :) The sun was bright, it was cold, kids get impatient, etc etc. (honestly, I hate pictures of myself, I always try to cover myself up with the kids!) We did get 2 pics, not professional looking by any means but realistic enough! That Walker, he has got the smile down pat!

I also got to finish a scrapbook page I was working on for the Splitcoast Unity Sketch challenge. It was a card sketch but I used it for a layout sketch as I need to scrapbook a bit more than make cards lately!

Products used: several Unity stamps, some awesome BG and sassafras papers, puff paint, Thickers etc

keepin' my focus...

2008-12-23T18:12:00.000-08:00

I have been working steadily at keeping my focus on the "Christ" in Christmas. At times I get a little panic attack rising and I feel the pressure of the holidays creeping up. I went Christmas shopping and felt the financial strain, a burden, and I became disappointed - in myself. I Love Christmas, this wasn't how I wanted to feel nor how God intended me (us) to feel. So I sat, I pondered, I immersed myself in God's word, I thought and then I listened. Focus on the "Christ" of Christmas... that is what I heard. With that as my focus, peace came like a blessing and here I am, a day before Christmas - at peace. I could list a bunch of things happening but really none of that matters except it is the day before Christmas! I am so excited. I took some of the financial burden off by making some gifts. I always feel like people may not appreciate hand made gifts but I enjoy making and giving them and they are heartfelt so I figure they are all right :) I also spent some time in the PRESENTation of the gifts while others I simply wrapped. you take some and you give some... anyway, here are some of the creations and packaging I had a blast making...

I made these for a teacher gift and girl gift for my dd's class (cute template I had found a while back...)

This is actually for a friend and I can't show you what is inside yet... I will though, after I give it to her. I got these cigar boxes from a lady who works at a liquor store. I spray painted and decoated. They work great for gifts!

remember these pillow boxes? Another template I found in my papers I have kept through the years... these hold ornaments for my Sunday School kids(Unity stamps)

I made two of these bags with treats in them for the kids' Sunday School teachers. I love decorating brown bags, it is simple and fast. (another Unity stamp!)

here is another cigar box decorated up for my cousin's little girl. I filled it with all things a princess would need: a ring (candy), a necklace (candy), bracelet - real!, and some yummies to help her through her day! I know her folks will appreciate all the sugar!

thanks so much for checking it out. I wish you all a Merry Christmas and that your focus stays on the "Christ" in Christmas...

many blessings - K

snow day!

2008-12-15T09:23:00.000-08:00

Lovin' winter! Our first snow day today of this school year... however, now that I work at the school I also know that we will more than likely have to make it up and it will come from one of our few "normally" scheduled days off. BUT - I will enjoy it today! Hot chocolate, movies, and oh yeah! - some scrapping/crafting time. (don't worry, I am not neglecting my daily chores, I am doing laundry - the kids, well, there are those leftovers to tide them over :) )

Here are a couple of items I worked on yesterday...

(products used: BG paper, Cuttlebug embossing folder, Unity stamps - Baby Jesus and the journaling tab on the scrapbook page)

I have been working on, or at least getting ready to, some Christmas presents and I came across this story our Pastor read a while ago at church. It is called, "My heart, Christ's Home." It is awesome, it talks about a man inviting Jesus into his heart and how he brings Jesus throughout his "home" which includes the library (our mind), the dining room (our appetites and desires), and so on... (If you want a copy of it, email me and I will send it to you).

My favorite part, or a part that resonates hugely with me is when they go to the man's workroom. Jesus looks at what the man has created with all his tools and the man admit's he hasn't done much but he would like to do more. He then goes on to say he doens't have the strength of skill to do better. (here comes my favorite part...:) )

"Would you like to do better?" He (Jesus) asked. "Certainly," I replied. "All right. Let me have your hands. Now relax in me and let my Spirit work through you. I know that you are unskilled, clumsy and awkward, but the Holy Spirit is the Master Workman, and if He controls your hands and your heart, He will work through you." Stepping around behind me and putting His strong hands under mine, He held the tools in His skilled fingers and began to work through me. The more I relaxed and trusted Him, the more He was able to do with my life.

That to me is the perfect description of what I want every time I go to craft and create. No wonder I feel such a peace and satisfaction when I craft, my Lord, is there beside me, guiding me and helping me. I always knew this in my heart but I had a hard time explaining to my husband just how crafting makes me feel, this does it - most perfectly.

Have a most wonderful day! - K

Today's scripture:

John 14:23

Jesus replied, "If anyone loves me, he my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him."

house update

2008-12-09T19:51:00.000-08:00

Just thought I would post some pics of the house project and how it is coming along...

safety first here at the Bents' an open view in our living room;

the view from our "upstairs"

The contractors were here last Monday through Wednesday and built the frame of our second floor and sheeted it. We were going to shingle this past weekend but Mr Weather changed our minds on that one (thank goodness!) We had been living in the garage starting Monday but moved back into the house this past Saturday. It was cozy and warm in the garage and worked out well but it is nice to be back in the house even with the unfinished walls, tarps hanging down and a very, very cold upstairs (we have it blocked off for now). The kids did get to go "upstairs" and try and envision where their rooms will be. That seem to make all this chaos and mess we call construction a little more worth it to them. Kids need that visual. Nick is of course working like a madman, last week he had off and worked here, trying to keep ahead of the contractors with the wiring, insulation and so on, this week he is back to his normal job during the day and construction man by night. He (we) are also so thankful his dad is his right hand man and has been a tremendous help. There is nothing like family. I mean that, seriously. They were up here last weekend helping tearing off the roof so the contractors would be ready to roll come that Monday. Like I said, there is nothing like family. Of course friends come in close as there were a couple of those too and we couldn't have done without them! The house is a work in progress, I am not sure the kids understand that it will take a while... I have been doing better than I thought through all the mess and unorganization, I can only say it is because the grace of God.

this will be the boy's room

after day 2 of the contractors - wow!

Plus, I did take a few moments to myself and do some scrap pages :)

(supplies include some great patterned paper, Unity stamps and more!)

Thought this verse went well along with all that is going on in our life...

"As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord." Joshua 24:15

whoa!

2008-11-25T19:15:00.001-08:00

Can you believe it has been almost a month? Can you believe Thanksgiving is in 2 days? Can you believe we will be tearing off our roof in 5 days?! Yikes! We Bents' like to live on the edge I tell you. We have been busy demolishing our house in hopes to improve it in the end. I have been busy with school, craft shows and well, life in general. I do have to tell you about a book I did manage to "squeeze" in to read. ( Well, I always make time for books). It is called "The Shack" and if you are looking for a thought provoking, "make you think" kind of book, this is definetly the one. Seriously, go and check it out. You can find out more at http://www.theshackbook.com/ I don't want to give too much away but it is about a man whose daughter is abducted. 3 years later he goes to get the mail and finds a letter in his mailbox from God to come and visit Him at the shack where they had found evidence of his daughter's brutal murder... this book "wrestles with the timeless question: Where is God in a world so filled with unspeakable pain?" It really is good. Trust me :)

I have been hoping to find some time to get some new jewelry done and in my Etsy but that may have to wait a wee bit longer as with our house project and holidays coming, time is a rare commodity. I will leave you with a montage of pictures of my life as of late. Hopefully, my next post will be sooner rather than later. I pray you all have a blessed Thanksgiving - God is good! -K

1. some thank you cards sent to all those who helped with the front of the house (I will have to do another batch of those after this weekend!) 2. our kitchen view - very open :) 3. ripping out the kitchen window and door 4. part of my folks booth for craft shows, displaying my canvases of course ;) 5. Tyler and Buddy 6. our new windows, some light finally after having all plywood along the front for a few days 7. did I mention we have kittens (again) if anyone would like 1 or 6? Please... 8. my live, love, laugh canvas 9. small 6x6 canvas 10. Walker at a play we went to for a school field trip 12. Mallory and her new hair cut 13. miracles canvas - see I really do work! 13. a freezing day trying to Tyvek the house and keep us a bit warmer - hopefully this coming weekend the weather cooperates a bit more!

"Christ is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory." Jude 24

warning - lots to catch up on ...

2008-10-20T17:40:00.000-07:00

So it's been about 2 weeks or so since my last post, call it lazy, busy, life or whatcha want but I am here now :) First things first....

Happy Birthday to my sweet 5 year old! five - gasp! that is my youngest and he is 5. He doesn't need to hold his fingers up anymore when people ask how old he is. He can just tell them he's 5 now instead. That is what he informed me of earlier today. So wise... can't you just see the wisdom oozing out of that crazy, sweet, grin of his?

I finally got to create a bit this weekend. Not as much as I intended due to not feeling so well, but that's another story. I was planning on making some birthday gifts for my mom and grandma but only got these two cards done. One for each ? (j/k I ended up picking them something up on the way to the party, so organized :( ) Their birthday was Friday.

I also created these beads. These are the first of these of which I plan to create tons more and hopefully incorporate them into my jewelry as I think they are fun and fresh.

Also, been getting ready for shows, and shows, and shows... canvases, earrings, watches etc... it has been busy but worth it.

MEA weekend flew by... a visit to amazin farms with my kiddos, mom and my nieces was super fun. The animals are always fun to see along with their giant slide and maze. Plus, we were blessed with an awesome day too.

So there is my life in a quick (super quick) summary. But what a life it is...

I will leave you with this... K

"These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full." John 15:11

Love and marriage

2008-10-06T15:35:00.000-07:00

My dear husband and I went on a date yesterday. We dropped the kids off at the in-laws (I am so blessed with awesome in-laws!!!) and headed to town to catch the latest movie from Sherwood church. If you have never seen their first movie "Facing the Giants" go out and rent it right now. I don't mean to sound pushy - but really - go now, you can read the rest later :)Although the acting isn't 5 stars the message is above and beyond - quite literally. It is a Christian based film and the message is ... (searching for the right word....) just wonderful. Why did I digress to talk about that first movie? Well, because we went to see their second movie, "Fireproof." So on your way to rent "Facing the Giants" stop at the movie theater and watch this first, or second, either way it's all good. Whether your marriage is in peril or honeymoon bliss, this movie is a must have. It is so good to go to a movie without all that "junk" - take that to mean whatever you like. There are so many messages, words of advice, sound advice at that, to take and ponder. That is what I have been doing since viewing it yesterday. For instance, did you know you should study your spouse ? Forever. While your dating you earn your High School diploma with your knowledge of your spouse. Often times, after marriage we quit school though and don't continue to study. However, you should go on to get your Bachelor Degree, on to your Master's and eventually your doctorate degree. How great is that? Plus, who doesn't like to study something (someone) your in love with? That is just one tidbit from the movie, there are many more so I won't go blow the whole thing for you. Plus, it has humor, surprise, love and of course God's message - what so many are lacking these days but so desperately seeking. People are looking all over for their life's purpose, for peace, for joy and so on... they dive into the latest crazes, the latest Oprah's life changing book, when all the while it is right there - in the Bible all dusty on the shelf, the church around the corner or in that friend who's eyes are lit up always because of their faith in Jesus. This movie has Truth in it with a capital T. Watch it, share it and most definetly think about it. The acting isn't 5 star, but man, you get lost in the story. Trust me... go see it.

- K

books

2008-09-28T19:04:00.000-07:00

I just have to admit that I am a book junkie. Once my head gets stuck in one it isn't coming out until I am all done. It does terrible things to my mothering abilities, my housework, my time for creative play, etc... not to mention my husband thinks it is nuts, doesn't get it, and wishes I would come up for air and help him out once in a while. I can't help it though, I keep saying one more chapter, and 4 chapters late I think, well, I am almost half-way I might as well keep going. Then I think, well, half-way I might as well read it all. Supper? um... leftovers? oh, yeah, we had those for lunch... um... how about a pizza?
One of my favorite authors is Karen Kingsbury. She is truly gifted and uses her gift from God to bring Him glory. Her books are tear jerkers but speak so much Truth in them. I have favorite lines from all of her books. Trust me, try out one of her books, you won't regret it. I finished the last one of a series yesterday. (to tell, you the truth, I also started it yesterday :) ). Anyway, she had a line in there that stuck with me... "all of this and Heaven too." Doesn't that just speak volumes? I look around and see all that we have, all that I have. So much, so so so much and just think, at the end of all of this, Heaven is waiting for me. I think I often forget, or just don't give thought to, that my life here is short. Sure, I should enjoy all of the blessings I have and live each day to the fullest but don't you think my main purpose is to make sure that others will know they can have "all this and Heaven too?"
- K

Are you ready for some football?

2008-09-14T19:01:00.001-07:00

One weekend a month, 2 weeks a month and sometimes more, we get to say goodbye to Nick. Nick has been in the Air National Guard for over 10 years. It can be hard and frustrating not having him around, especially when the kids were young. Plus, it seemed every weekend he had guards it would never fail to have one of the kids wake up at 2 in the morning sick with the next kid following soon after. Never failed, I could almost count on it. Seriously. However, sometimes having Nick being in the guards isn't so bad. Take for instance this weekend. We recieved 6 free tickets to the MN Gopher vs Montana State football game at the Dome. We even all received free t-shirts made especially for guard members and their families. Since we had 6 tickets and only have 5 members in our family, Nick invited his dad to join us. There is nothing like watching football, live at the Dome. Plus, it helps when they win! I totally enjoyed it. The kids did well the first half but were tiring out by the 3rd quarter. What an experience though. At half time the marching band marched out each of the military emblems, they did a special tribute to the military, a military man sang "Proud to be an American" and it was just a great experience for the kids to realize what a great man their dad is and how he serves his country - and to get recognized for it. So here is to all the great military men and woman - and to the Gophers for winning! (I would have added the Vikings too but they didn't pull out a win this weekend :( )
enjoy your week!!- K

finding my groove...

2008-09-09T19:47:00.000-07:00

School started, projects due, family visiting, and big shows happening. These are a few of the things happening around here. Can you believe I forgot to take pictures the first day of school???? (and the second, third etc.) I have been camera forgetful lately. We went to my MIL's and I forgot to bring it there! I couldn't believe it. My sweet little niece was home along with my niece and nephews little girls and I forgot my camera.

I have to admit I have been struggling a bit with juggling life. I suppose I have been spoiled by being a stay at home mom before I started working at school last Christmas. It didn't seem to affect me too much then though so I didn't think anything of it this fall. I just can't seem to fit in "everything". Part of it is that "everything" is happening or due at once too and the last few weeks before school were hardly what I would consider productive, fun yes :) but not so productive.

I do feel I am slowing, (too slow for my taste) coming into a somewhat of a groove. Plus, I did just get a bunch of new glass pendants waiting to be worked on and hung on some silver chains. That is always an incentive. I did decide not to do to much for a show this weekend but will work on the next... priorites they say. I hate to feel rushed or not give my best because I don't have time. (I know that is more an excuse not to do something than it is the truth ;) ) Like I said there is family visiting and that is important to me. Keeping my kids on a routine schedule is important to me also. I get tired, I can only imagine they do to. Eventually we will all get into this school groove thing - and then it will be Christmas break! ha!

I did get some freezing done, which I love. It is just so satisfying to pull out of the freezer home grown veggies that I froze. Granted, I did grow them but friends did and that is close enough. They just make everything taste so much better.

It is Fall, my favorite season and with that time for some SOUP, one of my favorite things to make. Lately I have been baking up these though to no end. They are awesome! (so is her blog - trust me, you will check it everyday).

Well, it is just about my bedtime so I will leave you with some pictures of some veggies, exciting - not so much but the colors are so wonderful ;) -K

I had to leave you one pic at least of the little blue-eyed sweet pea that has stolen our heart. She was pretty tuckered here and kind of sad since the Vikings lost. She may live in California but her team is the MN Vikings - just ask her mom. (not her dad, he has a different team)

can you believe it????

2008-08-31T09:57:00.000-07:00

My son is 8 years old (young) today! What a wonderful 8 years it has been too. He is such a bright, brown-eyed wonder. He has such a passion for knowledge, learning and growing. Even better he uses it to grow closer in faith to God. He is truly a blessing. So here's to you my 8 year old. We love you!

Have an awesome Labor day weekend! -K

a little bling making...

2008-08-22T15:13:00.000-07:00

I put down my paper, stamps and ink for a bit and decided to focus a little on some jewelry. I recently received these glass pendants and was waiting for inspiration to hit... well, it didn't neccessarily "hit" but I did get a bump ;) They were pretty fun to play around with ( I say that about most things I create with, it is all fun!

Not sure if I will be posting these on my Etsy (I am not doing to well there... could be since I don't post new things to often, which I would like to change) or if I will be sending these along to craft shows and see how they do there.

Anyway, here they are -(the one on the chain is a keeper for me I think!)

Thanks so much for looking! Have a great weekend, I plan too. Stampin Up! open house tomorrow and my husband is home all weekend!! -K

Shop 'til you drop

2008-08-20T13:03:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was school shopping day. It was fun, my daughter, MIL and myself headed up to St Cloud and did some serious shopping. I always seem to get crabby after a while just b/c the money goes so fast and there isn't much to begin with - but hey, I did score some great deals and that is always a smile maker.

Today, however, I am tuckered out. It could be from shopping or the fact that my dh has been away since last Wednesday. Without having that extra hand and support a mother can get real tired, real fast. So today I am taking it easy. I checked out Splitcoaststamper's weekly challenges so I didn't need to put in the effort of figuring out "what" to do, just how to do it. Lazy, but it works. You need to pinch time where you can get it.

Without further ado, or psycho-babble from myself, here are my 2 creations:

The first challenge it the color challenge:

I don't have alot of SU colors so I improvise and find the closest match. This card was kind of a quickie, not too much detail but turned out somewhat cute... or so I think ;)

(It is really a close to cocoa and not greenish as it appears... Supplies: bazzil cardstock, Unity's August KOM and Tiny Trinity stamps, copics, prisma colored pencils, diamond glaze, walnut ink pad. TFL!)

The second challenge was a sketch challenge:

Again, I apologize for the side view, I need to work on that... but I spend enought time on the computer the way it is! (supplies: Circle cutter, Unity Believe stamp set, copics, souffle gel pens, Pink Paisley, KI memories paper and other stuff ;) TFL!)

have a great rest of the week after all it is "hump day" --K

New Technique Monday Challenge

2008-08-18T13:30:00.000-07:00

I have been learning/following/enjoying the challenges found over at http://www.splitcoaststampers.com/ and love having a goal in mind with the supplies listed to achieve that goal. It frees up all the time I would have used up just to come up with an idea and more or less figure out what supplies to use to make that idea work.

Today we were to create an "Acetate Treat Box." I needed a cute idea for a thank you to an awesome friend and her sister who just had a garage sale and let me add some of our things to it. All I had to do was mark our stuff and give it to my friend. They took care of the rest. Plus, I made out pretty well so I definetly needed a thank you. Today's challenge fits the bill.

You can find it here.

Here are my results:

pretty cute idea isn't it? (BTW, they are alot smaller than you might imagine...)
TFL! -K

(supplies: Unity KOM AUgust stamps, Paper Trey Ink stamps; directions from splitcoast stampers challenge post, bazzill paper, fiskars shape scissors, stickles, brown & black staz on ink, TLC181 stained glass technique from splitcoaststampers, etc... TFL again!)

busy little bee

2008-08-14T17:51:00.001-07:00

Well, I have had an awesome, fun, creative filled day! I love these kind. Plus, I didn't totally ignore my kids to do it so no guilt feelings squeezing out the fun of it. I completed several challenges listed here.

The first one is Roxie's sketch challenge Sc189:

I used Unity's Girl's Night out Stamps for this one

I then did the technique challenge TLC181 Stained Glass:

I used the new August KOM from Unity for this one

Finally, I did the color challenge using Taken

with Teal, Elegant Eggplants, & Old Olive (or at least colors I thought matched these...)

Here I used Unity's "two people in love" and the July KOM stamps

Also, here are some of the 21 Lo's I have been working on. It is so fun to look back on the kids and see how much they've grown. Now I am just aching to hold a baby, mind you I said just hold, not have.

(can you tell I still haven't figured out why some pics are "turned" - anyone?? )
Have a great night! I plan on it!

missing in action

2008-08-13T19:54:00.001-07:00

so where have I been? not that I have been missed ;) we have been busy doing more on the house to get ready for our addition this fall. After spending several weeks under the house we have now moved to the back of the house. See where I once had a wall? We took out a patio door and are putting in a door and a window along with beefing up the wall too for when we add on the second story addition. exciting but alot of work. Plus, I sometimes have a hard time working with my dh. I like to think I know everything, plus I am a wuss! So I am learning to be quiet and help out with what Nick asks... all the while keeping my wussy thoughts to myself. I am thankful we have a good friend who helps Nick out alot. Sometimes Nick forgets I am not as strong as he is. I mean, I can lift a couple kids, bags, groceries etc all in one load but carpentry stuff? Not so much.

Also, we have been busy with wrestling camp this week too. Only 2 nights and then the third (tonight) we had a BBQ at the coaches. The kids had a blast and I have to say I had fun chatting with the other parents. It is always fun to get to know the parents more and know who your kid's friends come from. This is a pic of Walker who happened to open a scab - the coach wrapped his head in tape.

Walker looked pretty tough wrestling with this around his head. Tyler convinced him on the way home, however, that his hair was going to come off when we took the tape off. Walker was pretty worried, I reassured him though. That is until Nick started taking the tape off and exclaiming, "oh no, your hair is missing!" It all worked out though, the hair is still there, in fact it needs a trim...

I will have some more posts this weekend as I have been busy working on my "2000" pictures for scrapping to empty out the box. I think I have over 15 Lo's done! Yeah - when I finish my 2000 pics I will only be 8 years behind. :P (gotta look at the bright side!)

first sketch

2008-08-07T15:14:00.001-07:00

I did it... I created my first sketch. Was I supposed to create the card first? Well, that is what I did. Backwards, yes I am. (kind of Yoda-ish talk, if you aren't a Star Wars fan you won't get it)

Anyway, I used some awesome SunSpirit embellishments to create an ATC, then used that card as a focal point on a card. Here are the results:

(products: SSS ATCs and copper circles, souffle pen, colored pencils, white stamping ink, SSS "many Thanks" stamp, fiskars edge scissors, provo craft paper, beads and art warehouse graphic flowers stamps)

Notice the cool copper circles with the beads? Those are the embellishments I am talking about.

From this card, I had an idea. Brace yourselves... these can cause trouble sometimes. However, in this case you should feel fairly secure. My idea was to sketch this card, then create a scrapbook page using the same idea. You can see the results of that here.

FYI last nights Vacation Bible School program was a hit. The kids did awesome. We sang, prayed, ate and played. Great combination. Here is my contribution to the hotdog roast/potluck. By the way, is it backwards to say that potluck is my favorite meal. Is that even grammatically correct? Well, we know where I stand on grammar. So if anyone cares, potluck is my favorite meal, however, backwards that may seem or sound. Thank you , thank you very much.

Ah shoot! Did you notice the time? Supper again... did I mention cereal is my second favorite meal? (I hope my family feels the same)

He said, "I love you" first...

2008-08-05T15:23:00.000-07:00

That is what my kids learned today about their dad. We sat and talked, or rather they sat, I talked about when I was dating their dad, when they were born, how when I had Mallory I decided being a mom was alot tougher than I first thought... they could have had me go on and on and on... wow, I don't think I have ever had an audience as captive as they were today. They listened for at least an hour about Nick and I, them etc. Pretty fun.

I finally created something today... one card. Hey, it's a start. I get these juices flowing, then look up after my attention has been soley on my work and realize I have to stop. now. right now and get supper started, then on to Vacation Bible School. Pop! Fizz! there goes my flow I just got going... oh well, maybe later.

I thought I would share a pic of my copics too and how they look so pretty sitting in front of me. I figure maybe they will make me want to stamp and color and scrap and create... or just keep looking at them and my color chart hanging above them (aren't I organized? :) and the empty places that need more colors :) ( I know, too many "ands" but that is the way I am rolling, remember supper? I still need to get to it so grammar is out the door, sorry)

all right, all right, my kids are hungry, Nick is due home soon and I am still sitting in yuck clothes and need to be a bit more presentable before VBS in 30 minutes - wait a sec! 30 minutes ! oh boy! gotta go.... K

fears...

2008-07-29T10:41:00.000-07:00

I hav a few fears... often times they can seem to control me or at least make my knees shake. Such as water. I live on the lake, I like to ski, like to swim but I am terrified (is that too strong a term?) scared, respectful, of water. There are times when I fall skiing and if I am not picked up in a hurry I can feel a panic attack coming on. Just ask my df Ali from high school how I react when someone teases me when I am in the water and they say there is something behind you - b/c it is what IS in the water, not the water itself. I could be the first victim of a shark attack in a non-salt water lake in the world. It could happen - they always say anything is possible - right? Or how about those big ol' muskies people catch or that weird old, old fish people caught on the Mississippi river so long ago with the huge teeth- it looked like a piranha. YIKES! of course, I hide this fear from my kids b/c I do not want this same fear to hinder them as they grow up.

There are also balloons. I do not like them. The kids love them. Frankly, they scare me too. I don't like when they pop, I don't like blowing them up and I don't even like to touch them. I blame this on my sisters birthday party growing up when one of the games was to sit on a balloon to pop it. I had just a seed of this fear starting but after being chased by a balloon and having them threaten me with popping it on me - that seed sprouted, let me tell you.

I also have a fear of small places, this I blame on my brother who always made us wrestle and would cover my face and think it funny. (He is a great guy, as is my sister - I guess I just have some issues to deal with :) ) I worked with my dh in the crawl space last night and could start to feel some anxiety if we were down there too long but thankfully, I also have faith in God who is so good at giving me peace and comfort.

Finally, I think my fear that has grown as I have and with the addition of the responsibility of the safety of kids and lack of a basement, is my fear of thunderstorms. I know they are awesome and amazing and also totally terrifying for me (this time that term works perfectly!). We had quite the storm last night. Thankfully Nick was home that usually gives me some comfort and keeps me from freaking out. It was crazy though, the wind was so fierce. We woke up to part of our tree down in our yard. Thankfully, it landed away from our house. Neighbors had trees down, electricity was out for over 7 hours, another neighbor had a boat flip over and their lift thrown. Again, though I have to thank my lucky stars that I have a God watching out and everyone is safe.

Here is what I looked like last night though:

-K

first challenge creation

2008-07-27T11:40:00.000-07:00

I completed my first "challenge" today. I didn't really like the results as much as I hoped but I had fun doing it. I loved being given a start - something to inspire, colors etc. Often times I just look at my "stuff" move it around a bit or maybe organize, then head back to the computer to see if there is any more inspiration, new items I 'need', or anything to get me away from the overwhelming feeling of my "stuff." Sometimes I need that push to get me going, some thing to set my eyes on - and this challenge did it. I will now be participating in challenges alot. I love having a starting point then going to my stash with a determined attitude, pulling the requisites and letting creativity take over - even if the end result isn't my total favorite at least I am creating.
Here is the result of this challenge:

Off to find me some more challenges... :)-K

weddings, babies and garage sales - oh my!

2008-07-25T17:02:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since my last post ( I wish I had a dollar for every time I may start my blog with that line!) I have been getting ready for a garage sale, I am not hosting it but had a great friend who asked if I had anything I wanted to get rid of. I am always ready to purge. I always feel great afterwards... something like a chip off my shoulder some how, it makes me feel "lighter" to get rid of some things. It doesn't seem to make any dent though in the clutter in the house. How does that work? I can clean the kids' rooms, take out 5 huge garbage bags and their rooms still look full, clean but full? A question that may never be answered I'm afraid.

I was so blessed to see my dear friend's new baby last night. Can you believe how small they start out!? I always forget that. They are so soft and fragile and just so darn sweet. Especially since I get to hold them when they are like that and give them back when they start crying, plus, I get to sleep through the night. I am just so excited for them. There was the chance of complications and so many things they went through the past year, but the worry was for naught.

I had big plans today... wedding cards, hello cards, cards for my Grandma etc... I accomplished 1 wedding card. I guess that is something, especially since I needed that for tomorrow. Maybe I can get some more done before the wedding tomorrow. Here is what I created today...

as always, thanks for visiting and please, come again! TTFN- K